Reducing Compassion Fatigue on a Cardiac Telemetry Unit

Abstract Background: Compassion fatigue (CF) among nurses is a significant concern affecting both individual well-being and patient care outcomes. Findings from a 2020 national survey found two-thirds of nurses (62%) struggle with CF and even a high rate for those nurses under the age of 25 years. Through a review of current literature and case studies, the effectiveness of these interventions in reducing stress, enhancing resilience, and improving overall job satisfaction among healthcare professional is examined. Practical implications for implementing these interventions in healthcare organizations are discussed, emphasizing the potential for creating supportive environments that foster emotional and mental well-being among staff. This quality improvement project aims to address CF through targeted interventions at a tertiary care hospital. Problem: Concerns for staff retention and turn over were raised in a cardiac telemetry unit. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the unit witnessed a 10% reduction in nursing staff and a 3% decrease in Patient Care Technicians (PCTs). Results from a Professional Quality of Life scale (ProQOL) survey indicated that the unit is experiencing moderate levels of compassion fatigue among its staff. Interventions: Education was given on the significance of practice of mindfulness exercises. Under the unit-based council and leadership’s direction, a wellness room was established, and integrated mindfulness exercises into daily staff huddles. Results: Burnout score reduced from 25 (Moderate) to 21.1 (Low). The mean burnout score decreased by 12%. Conclusion: Mindfulness interventions were successful in reducing compassion fatigue among care givers in a cardiac telemetry unit. Results from this project are expected to contribute valuable insights into effective strategies for mitigating CF among healthcare professionals, thereby improving both patient outcomes and staff satisfaction. Keywords: compassion fatigue, nursing burn-out, interventions, wellness rooms